Sunday, July 22, 2007

Ginkgo biloba - Elixir of Youth

Ginkgo biloba - Maidenhair Tree



Ginkgo biloba is the oldest living tree species. A single tree can live as long as 1,000 years and grow to a height of 120 feet During the last ice age, however, it nearly became extinct and survived only in China and other parts of Asia where they stayed until at least 1000 years ago, when they were planted around monasteries in Japan...and these trees are still living! It is estimated that the tree survived in parts of China for 200 millions years and a single tree can live more than 1000 years.

Although Chinese herbal medicine has used both the ginkgo leaf and seed for centuries, modern research has focused on the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), which is prepared from the dried green leaves. This standardized extract is highly concentrated and seems to be clinically more effective in treating health problems (particularly circulatory ailments) than the non-standardized leaf alone.


BOOST BRAIN POWER


Like any other part of the body, the brain needs adequate blood flow, or it can't function properly.

Laboratory research indicates that it is through this process that ginkgo sends more blood to the brain and throughout the body. In studies, ginko has been shown to sharpen memory, boost concentration, lessen the distressing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, and improve circulation to the extremities. Herbalists call GBE the perfect remedy for aging because it strengthens organs that degenerate with disease.

One study found that blood flow to the brain was increased by about 20% for people ages 30 to 50, but for people ages 50 - 70, the increase was 70%!

The 12 symptoms of cerebral insufficiency which ginkgo may improve are:

difficult concentrating

tiredness

dizziness

absent mindness

performance aniexty

tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

depression

sadness

headaches

lack of energy

decreased physical

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